Entertaining Tips for the Holidays

Well the holidays are in full swing and with so many holiday parties, events, and gatherings to attend and even host, I thought I'd share a few of my favourite tips if you're playing hostess this holiday season. The season is already busy enough as it is so it's easy to get overwhelmed so these are a few of the tips I try to keep in mind when James and I host to help reduce stress, keep me focussed on only the necessities and ensure that I can relax and enjoy the night!

Set the Scene With a Simple Stovetop DIY Potpourri

When you're having guests over, scent can make such an impact when it comes to setting the mood for the evening. Not everyone loves candles when entertaining due to the potential hazard with lots of people in a small space or with children or pets running around so as a simple alternative, a DIY stovetop potpourri can be a simple, affordable and wonderful way to set the holiday mood.

This is my go-to for a festive holiday scent: 4 cups of water, 1 sliced orange, handful of cranberries, 3-4 cinnamon sticks, 1-2 teaspoons each of nutmeg and cloves

Add all of the ingredients to a pot and place on the stovetop on low and simmer as the night goes on. Top with more water as needed. It doesn't take long for the holiday scent to take over your home, it's just perfect for the holidays!

Ten Minute Tidy

Obviously when you're hosting a get together you want your home to look spotless but sometimes there's not always time for a full top to bottom deep clean. If you're tight on time for cleaning before your guests arrive focus on the bathroom, kitchen and living area (or space where you're seating/spending the most time). A quick wipe of the surfaces and vacuum can make a big difference in a short timespan so always start there as the essentials. I am absolutely obsessed with my Dyson V7 Motorhead Vacuum from The Brick. For quick pre-hosting tidying it's perfect because it's cordless (no tripping over cords as I'm hurrying around), it's so lightweight and it's versatile. It's the perfect easy to use vacuum that's ideal for pre-hosting tidying up. Also, this has already come in handy big time in cleaning up mess from our Christmas tree and messes made from wrapping presents.

Don't Stress About Chilling Wine

If you're anything like me, you're so focussed on preparing the food and making sure your home is tidy that it isn't until minutes before your guests arrive that you realize that you don't have your wine or beer chilled! If you're looking to chill wine (or bottled beer or drinks) quickly, one of my favourite tips is to wet a few sheets of paper towel, wrap it around the bottle and throw it in the freezer for 10-15 minutes. This will help chill the wine more quickly than just popping it in the freezer alone. This is one I've used on more than one occasion, you can thank me later. ;)

Opt for Multifunctional Seating

If you're hosting a holiday soiree, one of the most important things to take into consideration is seating. To make sure your guests are comfortable you'll want to make sure you have ample seating options so that no one has to be cramped or uncomfortable. It's for this reason that I love multifunctional pieces such as the Chilton ottomans from The Brick. They're small and light enough to move from one room to another so they make a great makeshift extra seat or side table. I also like to have comfortable barstools for seating as the kitchen island is often a hub of activity and conversation at get togethers at our home. I love our new Wilma barstools from The Brick. They're modern and I love how stylish they are but they're also upholstered and they have a sturdy back which makes them really comfortable and great for guests.